Seventy-seven centimeter error in Monaco returns podium to Gasly

Published on June 12, 2026 | Translated from Spanish

The FIA admitted a measurement error in the Monaco pit lane, where a 77-centimeter difference led to unjust penalties for Pierre Gasly. Following the review, the penalties were annulled and the driver regained his third-place position. This case demonstrates that when an appeal is made, official errors can be corrected without harming the competition.

Formula 1 pit lane in Monaco, engineers measuring with a laser tape measure the exact distance between garages, digital stopwatches showing penalty times, Pierre Gasly pointing out a discrepancy on a tablet with telemetry data, while a steward reviews technical drawings on a screen, 77 cm error highlighted with red measurement lines on the ground, blue and white neon lights, hyper-realistic cinematic style, detailed metallic and asphalt textures, dramatic shadows, sharp focus on the technical verification process, precision engineering

Technical precision fails by less than a meter 🏎️

The error arose when measuring the pit lane entry line. The FIA used an incorrect reference point, deviating the actual distance by 77 cm. This led to fining Gasly for supposedly exceeding the speed limit. The technical review, based on telemetry data and cameras, confirmed the discrepancy. The control system, although advanced, depends on human calibrations that can fail.

77 cm worth a podium and an apology 🏆

Imagine losing a third-place finish because someone measured with wet fingers. Gasly went from being an offender to a vindicated hero. Meanwhile, the FIA adjusts its tape measures and promises not to make the same mistake again. At least the error was small: if they had measured in feet, the entire podium would have changed hands.